[rg]

Actually, UK buildings typically contain at least three different standard sockets and plugs--the big ugly ones (with a supply of four different fuses needed), a mini version of that design commonly used for table lamps and floor lamps, and a third design allowed in bathrooms so you can plug in an electric shaver (electrical sockets and even light switches are ordinarily barred from bathrooms). There are also many different kinds of lightbulbs (screw-in, push-in, push-and-turn-to-lock-two pins) in many different physical sizes (as well as different wattages). Running a family house requires a considerable stock of bulbs and fuses, which explains all the "electrical supplies" shops which are unknown in the US. Up until about 10 years ago, in my personal experience, UK small appliances, lamps, etc. were sold with bare AC wires and the householder was expected to add the needed style of plug; now everything comes with the huge plugs.

[arethuza]

What are these mini plugs? Everything I've ever seen has either the BFO plugs or the wee razor type plugs that go into the BFO ones with an adaptor. I've never seen a socket in a house for razor type plugs (although hotels do have them) - I guess new properties might have them.

[fanf2]

WRT the "mini version" you are thinking of the pre-WWII BS 546. BS 1363 was introduced in 1947 and does not have a mini version.

[confuzatron]

UK buildings typically contain

I've only ever lived in houses with the big uglies.

All lightbulb headaches have been due to IKEA and their foreign ways.